Local entrepreneur brings professional wrestling passion to life with new promotion
In the world of professional wrestling, where dreams are slammed down on the mat and comebacks ignite the crowd, a new player has entered the ring. Wrestling Evolution, brainchild of Tim Wilcox, is bringing high-octane action to the Carolinas, one body slam at a time.
Inspired by a cutback in overtime at his day job and a lifelong love for wrestling, Wilcox decided to take a chance in February 2023.
“The Mark Twain quote, ‘Write what you know about,’ kept running through my head,” Wilcox says. “This business is my passion.”
The dream quickly became reality. With a logo designed by wrestling merchandise artist Mark De Gruchy, social media channels buzzing, and a roster of talented wrestlers assembled, Wrestling Evolution held its first event, “Lethal Lottery,” in June 2023. The tournament-style event crowned its inaugural Wrestling Evolution Heavyweight Champion.
Building a Legacy, One Match at a Time
Wrestling Evolution isn’t just about high-flying moves and championship belts. The promotion aims to be a top independent wrestling organization, bringing quality entertainment to fans across the Carolinas and beyond.
Their monthly events, held at the Cross Country Campground in Denver, NC, are a testament to this dedication. Each show is meticulously crafted, with storylines that captivate audiences and leave them wanting more.
The action doesn’t stop there. Events are filmed and released bi-weekly on the Wrestling Evolution YouTube channel, further expanding their reach. In May, they even held a special event, “Unleashed Aggression,” at Bandys High School in Catawba, NC.
Looking ahead to 2025, Wrestling Evolution has its sights set on expansion. New cities and events are planned, bringing the excitement of professional wrestling to a wider audience.
Training the Next Generation of Stars
But Wrestling Evolution isn’t just about showcasing established talent. They’re also committed to nurturing the next generation of grapplers. Their professional wrestling school and training center, located at 110 Performance Dr. in Lincolnton, NC, offers a unique opportunity for aspiring wrestlers aged 15 and up.
Under the guidance of experienced trainers like former ROH star Beer City Bruiser, Cam Jackson, and Tommy Kjango, students learn the ropes (literally) and gain the skills they need to step into the ring.
More Than Just a Match: Creating Memories
Wrestling Evolution is about more than just athleticism and entertainment. It’s about creating memories that last a lifetime. Their events bring families and friends together, immersing them in the electrifying atmosphere of live professional wrestling.
From cheering the heroes to booing the villains, every Wrestling Evolution event is a unique experience. The passionate fanbase is a core part of the company’s success, their enthusiastic reactions fueling the energy in the arena.
Overcoming Challenges, Building a Legacy
Building a wrestling promotion from the ground up hasn’t been easy. Wilcox acknowledges the challenges, from finding venues that welcome professional wrestling to securing sponsorships. But his determination is unwavering.
“For every ‘no’ I hear, I persevere,” Wilcox says. “Because I know someone is going to eventually say ‘yes.'”
With a dedicated team, a growing fanbase, and a passion for the sport, Wrestling Evolution is poised to become a major player in the Carolinas’ wrestling scene. As they continue to innovate and expand, one thing is certain: Wrestling Evolution is here to stay, and the future looks bright.
Wrestling Evolution runs once a month at the Cross Country Campground in Denver, NC. We record our events and release them bi-weekly on our YouTube channel.
For more information visit www.witnesstheevolution.com.
